THE USE OF MICROBIOME FORENSICS: IDENTIFYING PEOPLE BY THEIR BACTERIA

AUTHOR – NARGIS ANSARI, ADVOCATE & LLM SCHOLAR AT AMITY INSTITUTE OF LEGAL STUDIES, AMITY UNIVERSITY, NOIDA

BEST CITATION – NARGIS ANSARI, THE USE OF MICROBIOME FORENSICS: IDENTIFYING PEOPLE BY THEIR BACTERIA, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 5 (5) OF 2025, PG. 851-857, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344

Abstract

Microbiome forensics is an emerging field in forensic science that utilizes the unique microbial communities associated with individuals as a novel form of trace evidence. Unlike traditional forensic methods such as fingerprinting or DNA profiling, microbiome forensics examines the personalized “microbial fingerprint” left behind on objects and surfaces through human contact. These microbial communities, shaped by genetics, environment, diet, and lifestyle, exhibit both individuality and temporal stability, making them viable for personal identification and investigative leads. Initially propelled by bioterrorism cases such as the 2001 anthrax attacks, microbiome analysis has since expanded to a wider range of criminal and civil applications. The technique primarily relies on high-throughput DNA sequencing methods like 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing and shotgun metagenomics, followed by advanced bioinformatic analysis. This approach offers advantages over traditional methods, including greater persistence on surfaces, resilience to environmental degradation, and potential to yield contextual information about individuals. However, the field also faces significant challenges such as lack of standardized protocols, dynamic nature of the microbiome, risks of contamination, and ethical concerns regarding privacy. Future directions include integrating microbiome data with traditional forensic techniques, expanding global microbial databases, and applying machine learning to enhance identification accuracy and inference. With continued research and the development of legal and scientific standards, microbiome forensics holds significant promise in reshaping investigative practices and achieving more comprehensive and equitable justice outcomes.

Key words: Microbiome forensics, Human microbiome, Microbial fingerprint, Forensic science,  Trace evidence.